When did the modern big business begin?

Modern big business began in the late 19th century, particularly during the period known as the Second Industrial Revolution, which spanned from the 1870s to the early 1900s. This era saw the rise of large corporations, the expansion of railroads, and the advent of new technologies, leading to increased production and market reach. Key figures such as John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie exemplified this transformation, as they built vast business empires that dominated their respective industries. The establishment of corporate structures and practices also laid the groundwork for the business landscape we know today.